Grünausee

The Grünausee lies in the Pinnistal valley, one of the most beautiful side valleys of the Stubaital valley. Settled between the prominent rocks of the Kalkögeln and the Serles mountain, the trail from Volderau descends the valley through woods, over alpine meadows, and finally to a still alpine lake in the upper Pinnistal valley.

Why Grünausee?

The Pinnistal valley is a valley for itself: quieter than the main Stubaital valley, less frequented, with its own atmosphere. The striking silhouette of the Kalkögeln and the Serles accompanies the entire hike. The Grünausee itself is no spectacular glacial lake – it’s a still, green alpine lake amidst peaceful alpine landscape.

Dogs are welcome – the Pinnistal valley is dog-friendly.

Trail Description

Start Volderau (ca. 1,066 m): Parking lot at the entrance of the Pinnistal valley. From here, on the forest road down the valley.

Pinnistal Valley Path (km 1–5): Broad path through mixed woods, the stream always in earshot. Gentle ascent.

Alpine Areas (from ca. 1,400 m): The valley opens up, the woodland boundary retreats. Wide alpine meadows and the first view of the Kalkögeln.

Grünausee (ca. 1,900 m): The lake lies off the main path to the Innsbruck Hut. A short detour is worthwhile.

Requirements

• Good condition for 836 meters of elevation gain and 13 km total length
• Normal hiking terrain, no technical sections
• Dogs allowed
• Good shoes recommended (wet areas near the stream)

Tips

• Combination: Continue to the Innsbruck Hut (additional ca. 200 meters of elevation) for a rest stop
• Best Time: June to October
• Public Transportation: Stubaital bus to Neustift, then taxi or footpath to Volderau
• Quietest Day of the Week: Monday to Friday significantly less traffic than on weekends

The Grünausee is a secret tip in the Pinnistal valley – who seeks the peaceful Stubaital valley off the beaten tracks will find it here.